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Why is it important to turn it on?

Using 2FA to access your favourite programs provides enhanced security to traditional usernames and passwords. The multiple layers of authentication increase confidence that the user requesting access is actually who they claim to be i.e. you.

Where do I turn it on?

Where to turn on 2FA within a program depends on each program. However, the steps are universally simple and somewhat similar. Icons and language may differ slightly depending on the program, or device you are using.

Third party 2FA apps

If you would like to use a third party 2FA app, there are many available. Most are free of charge and effective with Gmail. The recommendation is to do your research and find a solution that’s right for you. Below are some examples of 2FA apps currently available.

  • Google Authenticator
  • LastPass Authenticator
  • Microsoft Authenticator
  • Authy

Setting up automatic updates

  • Turn on or confirm auto-updates, especially for operating systems.
  • Regularly check for and install updates ASAP if auto-updates are unavailable, especially for software.
  • Install updates as soon as possible (if auto-updates unavailable).
  • Set a convenient time for auto-updates to avoid disruptions to business as usual.
  • If you use anti-virus software, ensure automatic updates are turned on. 

NOTE: If your hardware or software is too old it may not auto-update and leave your business susceptible to technical, software and security issues. The ACSC recommends upgrading your device or software. Windows 7 and Microsoft Office 10 will be unsupported after 14 January 2020 and 13 October 2020 respectively.

Where do I turn it on?

How to turn on automatic updates can differ depending on your operating system and your programs.

Turn on automatic updates for Windows 10

By default, Windows 10 updates your operating system automatically. However, it is safest to manually check that you are up to date and it is turned on.

  • Select the Windows icon.
  • Click on the Settings Cog icon.
  • Once in Settings, scroll down and click on Update & Security.
  • In the Update & Security window click Check for Updates if necessary. To check if your updates are paused, click Advanced Options.

Some feature updates will need to be manually enabled even when automatic updates are turned on. To do this go to, Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and select Check for updates. Once the update appears, you can select
Download and install now.

Turn on automatic updates for your programs

In addition to turning on automatic updates for your operating system, it is recommended you also turn on automatic updates for your programs.

There are generally three ways to turn on automatic updates for programs.

  • Programs automatically update with operating system updates.
  • Automatic updates is the default setting upon program installation.
  • Manually turning on automatic updates. This can be enabled through Advanced Options (see Step 2 for Microsoft Windows 10)

Every program is different. For further information on the steps to manually turn on automatic updates for your programs, follow the program developer’s instructions.

Check what operating system you are currently using

An operating system is the most important piece of software on your computer. It manages your computer’s hardware and all its programs. The steps to enable automatic updates depends on your operating system and edition.

To learn what operating system you’re using:

  • Click the Apple icon in the Finder bar.
  • Select About This Mac
  • In the resulting window, you will see the name of the iOS you have installed under the Overview tab. Directly below that is the Version Number. The screenshot below indicates the operating system is macOS High Sierra.

Turn on automatic updates for your operating system

Automatic updates for all operating systems, including for Mac, are important in keeping your device secure.

Mac High Sierra and Mojave:

  • Click the Apple icon in the Finder bar > Select System Preferences
  • Click Software Update icon
  • Click to tick the Automatically keep my Mac up-to-date

Turn on automatic updates for your apps

In addition to turning on automatic updates for your OS, it is recommended you also turn on automatic updates for your software applications (“apps”).

NOTE: Automatic app updates for Mojave operating systems can be enabled when you turn on automatic updates for your operating system (see Advanced Settings Step 2 and 3 for further detail).

  • Click the Apple icon in the Finder bar at the top left corner of your screen, and select System Preferences
  • Open the App Store
  • To turn on Automatic Updates, select Automatically check for updates. Ensure all other check boxes are activated to guarantee installation
  • If you cannot activate the check boxes, click on the padlock and enter your details to unlock